DUBAI: E-scooter safety is back under the spotlight in the UAE after new data showed that major e-scooter crashes nearly doubled in 2025.
An analysis of Ministry of Interior traffic data by RoadSafetyUAE found that major accidents involving e-scooters rose by 97 percent compared with 2024.
This was much higher than the 23 percent increase recorded across all vehicle categories.
The wider micro-mobility group, including e-scooters, motorcycles, bicycles, and electric bikes, also recorded a 45 percent rise in major accidents.
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Residents Report Unsafe Riding
A nationwide study commissioned by Al Wathba Insurance and RoadSafetyUAE surveyed 1,010 UAE residents.
It found that 93 percent of respondents regularly see e-scooter riders behaving recklessly or unsafely.
About 90 percent said they feel unsafe because of rider behavior.
Helmet use is one major concern.
The study found that 90 percent of respondents often see riders without helmets.
Another 89 percent said they often see e-scooters in prohibited areas, such as sidewalks or roads against traffic flow.
Underage Riding and Night Risks
The survey also found concerns about younger riders.
Around 88 percent of respondents said they see riders who appear to be below the legal minimum age of 16.
Night riding is another risk.
About 81 percent said they often see riders without lights at night.
This can make e-scooter users harder to see, especially near roads, crossings, parking entrances, and busy community areas.
Rules Riders Should Remember
In Dubai, e-scooter riders must be at least 16 years old.
They must wear a helmet and reflective jacket.
They must not carry passengers.
They must also avoid heavy items that could affect balance.
The maximum allowed speed for e-scooters in Dubai is 20 km/h.
Riders must dismount when crossing at pedestrian points and keep a safe distance from pedestrians, cyclists, and other riders.
Where E-Scooters Are Not Allowed
E-scooters are not allowed on major highways or roads with speed limits above 60 km/h.
They are also not allowed in pedestrian-only areas, non-designated pavements, running tracks, jogging tracks, Metro stations, or platforms.
A permit is required to ride an e-scooter in Dubai.
It can be obtained for free through the RTA website or the Dubai Now app.
Those with a valid UAE driving licence or valid international driving licence do not need to apply for a permit.
What Riders Should Know Now
Common fines include Dh200 for riding without a valid RTA permit, Dh300 for carrying a passenger, Dh300 for riding on roads with speed limits of 60 km/h and above, and Dh200 for riding in non-designated lanes.
The main thing to know now is simple: safe riding protects the rider, pedestrians, motorists, and the wider community.
